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Naturally Sweet Wines vs Fortified Wines: The Differences Explained
Wine lovers are well aware of the diversity of the wine world, where each category of wine brings its own unique characteristics and flavors. Among these categories, naturally sweet wines and fortified wines stand out for their specific characteristics and distinct manufacturing processes.
Origins and History of Natural Sweet Wines and Fortified Wines
Natural Sweet Wines
Vins doux naturels (VDN) are a French specialty, mainly produced in the South of France , particularly in the Languedoc-Roussillon and Rhône Valley regions. Their history dates back to the 13th century, when the process of mutage was discovered by the monk and alchemist Arnaud de Villeneuve. This process involves adding alcohol to the fermenting must to stop the process and retain some of the grape's natural sugar, thus creating a vin doux .
Fortified Wines
Fortified wines , on the other hand, have a broader history that spans several countries. Some of the most famous include Port and Madeira from Portugal, Sherry from Spain, and Marsala from Italy. These wines also come from a fortification process, but they can vary greatly in style and taste depending on their region of origin and the specific methods employed.
Wine Production Methods
The production of vin doux naturels involves several key steps. The grapes, usually varieties such as Muscat and Grenache , are harvested at peak ripeness to maximize their sugar content. After harvest, the grapes are pressed and the juice begins to ferment naturally. Fermentation is then stopped by the addition of wine brandy , which retains some of the grapes' residual sugar and gives the wine its characteristic sweetness. The wines are then aged in vats or barrels, often for several months or even years, before being bottled.
Fortified Wines
The production of fortified wines follows a similar process but with significant variations depending on the type of wine. For example, for Port, the grape must is partially fermented before aguardente (a type of brandy) is added to stop the fermentation and preserve the sugar. Madeira wines undergo a unique heat-aging process, which gives them great longevity and a distinct taste profile. Sherries are classified according to their style after fermentation, and some undergo aging under a veil of yeast (flor) which influences their flavor and texture.
Taste Profiles
Natural Sweet Wines
VDNs are known for their elegant sweetness and aromatic richness . Muscat , for example, offers intense aromas of tropical fruits, flowers and honey, while Grenache can add notes of red fruits and chocolate. On the palate, VDNs are often smooth with a nice acidity that balances their sweetness. They pair well with desserts, blue cheeses or can be enjoyed on their own as an aperitif.
Fortified Wines
The flavor profiles of fortified wines vary greatly. Ports can be sweet and fruity, with aromas of dark berries, plums, and chocolate, or drier and more complex in Tawny styles, with notes of nuts, caramel, and figs. Sherry, on the other hand, can range from very dry (Fino, Manzanilla) to very sweet (Pedro Ximénez), each offering a range of flavors from almonds and citrus to raisins and caramel. Madeira , with its styles ranging from dry to sweet, exhibits flavors of dried fruits, caramel, and spices, and can age for decades without losing quality.
How to taste wines?
Natural Sweet Wines
VDNs are often used to accompany desserts such as fruit tarts, crème brûlées or chocolate cakes. Their natural sweetness and balanced acidity also make them an excellent choice for blue or blue cheeses . In addition, they can be enjoyed on their own as an aperitif , offering a rich and complex taste experience.
Fortified Wines
Fortified wines are incredibly versatile . Port is a classic companion to chocolate desserts, nutty tarts, and blue cheeses. Dry Sherries, like Fino and Manzanilla, pair well with tapas, seafood, and olives, while sweet Sherries are a great accompaniment to desserts and creamy cheeses. Madeira, with its diversity of styles, can be served with dishes ranging from appetizers to desserts , making for unique and memorable food and wine pairings.
Learn more:
- Ode to sweet wines
- From grape to bottle: the process of creating sweet wine
- Do you know about sweet wines?
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